Hills Ford Stages Rally: How to plan your visit to Shropshire

Motorsport enthusiasts and local residents should prepare for a busy weekend as the Hills Ford Stages Rally returns to Shropshire on Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026. The event, which spans from a ceremonial start in Shrewsbury to competitive stages across the south of the county, requires careful planning due to extensive temporary road closures and specific safety requirements for spectators.

Event Schedule and Locations

The rally kicks off on Saturday, September 19, with a ceremonial start in Shrewsbury. Later that afternoon, the action shifts to Weston Park for a dedicated Rally Festival, which will also host competitive stages. The intensity increases on Sunday, September 20, when the competition moves to public roads in south Shropshire. Five specific locations—Cressage, Clee Hill, Lawley, Dorrington, and Linley—will each host two stages throughout the day.

Navigating Road Closures and Traffic

To ensure the safety of both competitors and the public, temporary traffic restrictions will be in effect throughout Sunday. Under a Temporary Traffic Restriction Order issued via the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, these roads are closed to all traffic, including pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, and e-scooters.

Organizers have issued a strict warning: do not ignore “Road Closed” signage. Residents and businesses in the immediate vicinity have been contacted directly regarding access arrangements. For those traveling through south Shropshire, it is essential to allow extra time for your journey and follow the signed diversions rather than relying on sat-nav, as some routes may be blocked or unsuitable for event traffic. Real-time information on closures can be monitored via the One.Network website.

The Practical Picture: Spectator Safety and Access

Spectators must only view the rally from designated locations identified by the organizers. Attempting to watch from unofficial spots is prohibited, as the stages pass through working farmland and environmentally sensitive areas where public access is restricted. When planning your visit, keep the following safety and environmental guidelines in mind:

• Designated Areas: Travel only to the official spectator locations, parking areas, and recommended approaches published by the organizers.
• Safety Compliance: Stay behind barriers, never enter a live rally stage, and obey all instructions from marshals.
• Environmental Respect: No fires or BBQs are permitted. Take all litter home and keep dogs under close control.
• Parking: Do not park on verges, in passing places, or block field entrances and emergency routes.

For the most up-to-date information on the day, spectators are encouraged to join the official Hills Ford Stages WhatsApp channel via the QR code provided by the organizers. Detailed maps, parking information, and recommended travel routes are available at the official event website at hillsfordstages.co.uk/spectators/.

Source: Shropshire Council Newsroom